The past two weeks have been party central for the Artesia football team. Why not? The Bulldogs have played tenacious defense, allowing 14 points, and delivered tremendous offense, scoring 110 points in fewer than eight quarters. The Deming game ended under the mercy rule late in the third quarter.
Here are three things the Bulldogs have done well.
- Artesia quarterback Lucas Atkins has found his rhythm
Atkins is doing now what he has always been capable of doing. He can throw deep, play with confidence, and lead his team. He is connecting with receivers downfield for big gains and touchdowns.
In the past two games, Atkins has completed 27 of 31 passes for 393 yards and seven touchdowns, going 10-for-10 in one game and 27-for-31 in the other.
That efficiency matters as the competition gets tougher. Atkins does not have to force throws or carry the offense by himself. When he protects the football and takes what the defense gives him, Artesia stays on schedule and keeps opposing defenses from loading the box.
- Injuries have forced others to step up
It is unfortunate that Pando might not play again this season, but his injury has forced others to step up. Sophomore Logan Rodriguez has gained valuable playing experience that should help him this year and next. Junior Tyler Egeland also has stepped up, scoring two touchdowns and catching seven passes for 194 yards. Jaime Madrid, Dylan Quiroz and Jaden Fernandez have answered the call, too. Quiroz scored two touchdowns against Gadsden. Sophomore quarterback Chance Hocker also has looked sharp in limited action, completing 12 of 17 passes for 228 yards and five touchdowns.
That depth could become one of the Bulldogs’ biggest strengths down the stretch. Players who might have waited for their opportunity are getting meaningful snaps now, and the offense has kept producing.
- Special Teams
Against Centennial, the kickoff team allowed a touchdown return to open the second half. Usually, the Bulldogs score on kickoff returns by running the Starburst.
Against Gadsden, the Bulldogs recovered an onside kick, blocked a punt, and field goal kicker Corbyn Dominguez made a 42-yard field goal. Those plays changed field position, created momentum, and gave Artesia another way to control the game.
JT Keith can be reached at 575-420-0061 or on X@jJTKEITH1.